The new program is similar to others cropping up at colleges around the country, as student grapple with the rising costs of earning a degree.

The average tuition for one year at a public college is $9,970, according to the College Board. At private colleges, the average is a whopping $34,740. Room and board can add another $10,000 or more to that annual cost.

Eligibility for the University of Wisconsin-Madison free-tuition program begins with incoming freshman this fall, the school’s announcement said. Beyond the income requirement, there will be no requirements or other qualifying factors.